The former interim champion has been offered a short-notice clash with Justin Gaethje.

it appears Khabib Nurmagomedov vs. Tony Ferguson is a non-runner – for a staggering fifth time. Reigning lightweight champion, Nurmagomedov, is currently stranded in Russia after the country was issued a nationwide lockdown due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.

Nurmagomedv was scheduled to headline UFC 249 on April 18th. against Ferguson – but due to travel restrictions, Ferguson has now been offered a clash with fellow high-flying contender, Justin Gaethje. News of the tentative pairing was initially reported by ESPN reporter, Ariel Helwani.

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While the matchup between Ferguson and Gaethje isn’t signed, sealed, and delivered just yet, the fact that the promotion has juggled Gaethje as a possible replacement – likely puts the complete kibosh on a pairing of Khabib and Ferguson, yet again. Another interesting aspect of this potential booking is the implications the clash will have the targeted July pairing of former two-weight world champion, Conor McGregor, and Gaethje. As reported back in February, the organisation were expecting a clash between the two to finally take place this summer. These latest developments also put the brakes on that tie.

Arizonian wrestler come striker, Gaethje, has experienced a huge turn of fortunes in his last three outings. The former WSOF lightweight best has evolved into a very competent, and poised counter striker. The 31-year-old has managed to claim the #4 rank at lightweight – via knockouts of James Vick, Edson Barboza, and Donald ‘Cowboy’ Cerrone. As of yet, it’s unknown if an interim title will be introduced for the potential pairing.

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